INTERVIEW: Dorian’s latest EP ’33’

New Jersey native Dorian is an artist who’s been making waves around the world following the release of his debut single “Any Thing Goes” in 2019. Since then he’s dropped a string of captivating releases that have seen the rising pop sensation win over fans and tastemakers alike with his compelling vocal delivery carrying his alluring and instantly memorable melodic writing.

With his soulful R&B offering wrapped up in his own distinct pop appeal, he’s clocked hundreds of thousands of streams of his music and shared visual pairings to his sound with music videos for his singles “Proud” and “Reign Love”.

Recently he released his latest EP, marking his age with the three-track effort titled 33, featuring an extended dance mix of “Do Ya”, alongside “Blast Off” and “Notice Me”. Having finished a hugely successful 2022, we caught up with Dorian to find out what inspires him, his latest release and what he’s got in store for the next year. Read our interview with Dorian below.

Hey Dorian, how are you doing?

I’m doing well, how are you? Thanks for asking! I’m busy, but can’t complain! Lol

We’re great thanks! What’s been the most exciting thing that’s happened in 2022?

I would say shooting my music video “Reign Love” was a major highlight and super exciting time for me as an artist because it felt so surreal to be shooting professionally. I was soooo proud of the finished product; and it really brought a song I had written and loved so much a brand new life.

How did you first get into making your own music?

I’ve always written songs growing up; and even recorded often in a makeshift at home studio of mine. But after getting out of the military, I was able to fully dive into my artistry more. In 2019, I released my first ever song “Any Thing Goes”. And 5 projects later, here I am. Lol

How has your sound progressed since you first started?

I think I feel more confident vocally, and definitely try to push myself more when recording, without it feeling too “forced”. I am still continuing to experiment in more genres/sounds, and so there’s a consistent shift in my overall sound and vibe from project to project sonically.

Which artist do you draw most inspiration from?

Overall; I’d have to say Michael Jackson. I mean, he was and still is everything musically!

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

That’s almost hard to say; that there’s a “perfect” place, only because I am constantly switching moods and vibes! But I think in the car, and on a long road trip – you can really get a sense of the kind of artist I am. And I think being able to just sit with the music while in the car would be a pretty dope way to experience my sound. And turn the volume up! Lol

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

So many: SZA, Dave East, Beyonce, Monica, Michael Jackson, Faith Evans – honestly too many to name!

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

That love is real and that it can be felt. That love can be lived out through the ups and the downs. LOVE is what I want listeners to feel. 🤍

You’ve just dropped a new EP ’33’, how did you find making this release?

This project is one I wanted to be a real testament to where I am right now in my life. I wanted to discuss things I was going through; but also play with sounds I hadn’t before. I wanted to mark this year of my life (33), with 3 completely different sounds; yet still cohesive to my personal story. I love numbers; and so the timing just felt right. I was fine with this project being short because I released my album “The Arrival” earlier this year. I’m super proud of “33”!

What’s been your favourite live show so far?

I’d have to say it was my performance of “Reign Love” at the Baltimore based platform called “EnJoy the Mic” – so many of my loved ones were there and it was a special time in my life as many things were happening personally.

How do you try and connect with an audience when you’re performing live?

I try to really be in the moment; and pour my soul into the moment. I love eye contact and engaging with everyone so that the words I’m singing are really felt.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

Hmmmm wow! I’d love something like a Brandy and Monica headlined festival for Coachella. And also starring me! Lol

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Take that leap of faith. Continue to dream, and continue to believe. Even if it’s just day by day and step by step, keep going; you’ll get there!

Finally, what do you have lined up for 2023?

I’m going to promote and perform not only songs from “33”, but also my entire catalog! I’ve made so much music these past 3 years and so I want to share them all as things have fully opened back up. I’ll be sharing all of the dates and songs I’ll be performing on my social media for sure. More music videos, visuals, and YouTube content!

My Podcast “Embracing Your Love Marks” that I’m co-hosting with my friend Jeriel Harvey is going to be in full effect in 2023; we’re already 3 episodes in and we are having a great time! We have had some awesome guests on the show, and I’m excited for what’s next.

My LinkTree is where you can get all the latest and greatest on all of my endeavours!

Listen to 33 below